How Tall Is your Sunflower?

A Lesson Plan for Gardening in the Classroom in Alaska, by Sabrina Silvernale, an Alaska Master Gardener Photo by Heidi Rader. Subject Area: Math Grade Level: K-3 Ideal Season for Lesson: Spring through Early Autumn Time Needed: 20-30 min per activity   Materials Needed: Sunflower seeds, 3 per student. Look for tall varieties, different colors Garden space: Each student’s 1-3 seeds should be planted 12-18 inches from the next students’ 1-3 seeds) Tools to prepare soil, shovel or trowel Strong bamboo canes, one per student, labeled with his or her Read More …

Growing Broccoli and Cauliflower in a Greenhouse in Tok, Alaska to Extend the Season

By Mary Hinckley We experimented with broccoli and cauliflower this year, the purpose of the experiment was to find out where they grew best. The seeds were started very early, and ready to be transplanted before the ground was outside, so most of the plants went into the greenhouse first.  We kept some indoors until the ground was warm enough to transplant. Last year both broccoli and cauliflower grew quite well in our greenhouse, but this year we insulated it and thought that could make a difference. Both species seemed Read More …